The effect of name-based reporting and partner notification on HIV testing in New York State

Objectives. We examined the effect of New York's HIV Reporting and Partner Notification law on HIV testing levels and on the HIV testing decisions of high-risk individuals. Methods. In-person interviews were administered to 761 high-risk individuals to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding HIV testing and reporting. Trends in HIV testing were also assessed in publicly funded HIV counseling and testing programs, Medicaid, and New York's Maternal Pediatric Newborn Prevention and Care Program. Results. High-risk individuals had limited awareness of the reporting and notification law, and few cited concern about named reporting as a reason for avoiding or delaying HIV testing. HIV testing levels, posttest counseling rates, and anonymous-to- confidential conversion rates among those who tested HIV positive were not affected by the law. Medicaid-related HIV testing rates also remained stable. HIV testing during pregnancy continued to trend upward following implementation of the law. Findings held true within demographic and risk-related subgroups. Conclusions. HIV reporting has permitted improved monitoring of New York's HIV/AIDS epidemic. This benefit has not been offset by decreases in HIV testing behavior, including willingness to test among those at high risk of acquiring HIV.